Imran Khan’s family has reportedly become directly involved for the first time in backchannel contacts between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the authorities, raising hopes of progress in the coming days.
The former prime minister’s family joining the contacts is seen as a significant step in efforts to ease mounting political tensions and address some of the issues facing Khan, his relatives and PTI through dialogue.
Sources familiar with the contacts said recent discussions had already led to some progress, including arrangements for a meeting involving Khan’s family and his sisters. Those familiar with the discussions see the meeting as a possible step towards further talks.
Sources said concrete developments could follow within days, including the possible release of two of Khan’s sisters. There has been no formal announcement or confirmation of their release.
Key PTI intermediaries and figures in government and official circles are believed to be involved. Those taking part have so far been unwilling to identify themselves or publicly acknowledge their roles. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan is believed to be playing a central role, but when approached for comment, he declined to discuss any aspect of the reported contacts, saying he could not speak about such matters. Khan’s brother-in-law, Ahad Khan, acknowledged the contacts while speaking to reporters.
The development comes amid rising political tensions. Repeated confrontations, public accusations and sharp rhetoric have yielded little progress, while the deadlock has added to the difficulties facing PTI leaders, Khan’s family and the authorities. People familiar with the discussions said the family’s involvement could open more channels of communication and create room for a more constructive approach.
The apparent aim is to resolve disputed issues through negotiations and direct contact before political divisions deepen. The family’s participation is seen as significant because matters concerning Khan and his relatives have increasingly become part of the wider political confrontation.
It remains too early to judge the outcome. However, the reported progress, the meeting arrangements and the possibility of some immediate relief suggest the contacts may be entering a more consequential phase.
One source said the aim was to turn the contacts into concrete steps within the next few days. If successful, the source added, the effort could pave the way for a broader understanding between PTI and the authorities and help ease political tensions through dialogue.
